I bought this bike last summer thinking I would like to go on leisurely rides around Atlanta. And that’s what I did. 9 miles here, 12 there. I think the most I did was 15. Leisurely.
This April my friend took me on my first gravel ride. I had no idea what gravel riding was. 19 miles and I was hooked. The next weekend we did ~44 mi. In Talking Rock, GA. Brutal, but somehow I finished. I then got a Garmin and started going out solo. I love it.
Back to Talking Rock. I think I bonked (not too sure what qualifies). 30 miles in I was laid out on the side of the road, legs cramping. I knew I was in trouble. I made it back to my car because I didn’t have a choice. I definitely walked up some hills and took many more 20 minute breaks. I felt defeated.
I kept going back to the North GA mountains. I love the suffering. There’s something to be said about grinding it out up a mountain for miles. Just me and the universe. Just me and everything, and nothing at the same time. 30+ mile rides, 40+ mile rides. But the most I have seen is 4,500 ft. of elevation gain.
Last weekend I went back to Talking Rock. I took the medal home this time. 45+ miles (because I missed a turn). I knew I was ready for 60+.
I did it today. It was incredible. It was hard, grueling at times, but I knew I could do it and I did. About 55 miles in I felt like a machine, I felt unstoppable. I’ve got chills just thinking about it.
I have learned more about myself and about life from riding my bike on gravel roads in the mountains than I ever could have imagined. I could talk about it for hours. Chills again.
I love riding gravel and I cannot wait until I actually own a true gravel bike.
by Then_Box99
3 Comments
I’m from the same area, I ride blankets and old rope mill every week (woodstock). But I’ve had trouble planning a gravel route in north ga so I’ve never done it cause I ride alone. Did you have to deal with any stray dogs on your ride, and how did you plan it? Was it well marked? How long did it take you?
Good for you dude. I know exactly what you’re talking about. It’s complete freedom. I’m not a religious person but I definitely feel closer to whatever else is out there when I’m out alone in the mountains on a bike
Congrats – nice ride and welcome to the sub-reddit.